Our ultimate guide to accommodation in Bali Part Two: Mid to High-End stays

Whether you’re coming to Bali for the first time or the fifteenth, choosing accommodation can bring on a headache faster than a Bintang induced hangover. As tourists to this beautiful island we are really spoilt for choice.

Whether you’re looking to splash out and laze away your days at a Luxury Resort in Nusa Dua or you’re in search of a more authentic lodging in Ubud, we at inBali want to give you a few tips which will help you choose a place where you will be happy to hang your hat for a few days (or weeks).

Why come to Bali?

Image credit: Como Shambhala

Bali is an island full of experiences unlike any other.

Famous for its surf beaches, rich culture, bargain shopping and vibrant nightlife, there really is something here for everyone; families, couples, groups and young travellers.

The island itself attracts over 3 million foreign tourists per year, with the peak periods being during the months of August and September as well as December to the end of January.

Throughout the low season months of October through to March (December to January being the exception) most hotels are at 50% capacity so you can afford to shop around or even negotiate the price of your stay.

When it comes to choosing, variety trumps all expectations.

Mid-Range to High-End Accommodation

If you’re looking to treat yourself (and why not, you deserve it), then we suggest staying in one of the many luxury hotels and resorts scattered around the island.

These resorts are a place where you can spend all day without having to worry about a thing, all will be taken care of. These come in all shapes and sizes of rooms, suites or estates with multiple villas. Many also come with other amenities including restaurants, bars, spas and other modern conveniences you’d expect and want on your holiday.

You will find this style of accommodation located in areas such as trendy Seminyak or the lavish Nusa Dua, where some of the best 5 star resorts in the world can be found. But there are also some great reasonably priced accommodation options popping up in places like Sanur and Canggu.

The price for mid to high-end stay will be comparable to what you’d call a bit of a splurge back home. But keep in mind you will be taken care of, with no request too much. It’s the way the Balinese do business. This price will most likely be listed in US Dollars and your room will include air-con, Cable TV, hot water and a million other little luxuries. Airport transfers and other additional services are often included in the rate, just be sure to make final arrangements before boarding the plane to Bali and double check the extras before you book. In some cases, paying for a slight upgrade benefits you in other ways, like complimentary breakfast or access to exclusive parts of the resort.

Booking online

Image credit: Kiwi Collection

Take the time to consider what is right for you from the information and tips written above and don’t settle for the first thing you see.

There are some wonderful losmens, hotels, villas and resorts out there that are as beautiful and unique as the island of Bali itself. Below we have included some of the best websites to check out in order to make your check-in easier.

We also suggest that you cross check against a few different sites to make sure you’re getting the sweetest deal. The official websites should give the best indication of what the accommodation is like visually and provide you with the most information. But it’s not necessarily where you will get the better deal. It is those subsidiary websites as listed below where you will normally find the most competitive prices.

TripAdvisor – TripAdvisor’s data base is completely user generated with all rankings are based on peer reviews. There are more than 200 million reviews and opinions on more than 4 million different accommodation and dining options from travellers all around the globe. You can read countless reviews and make your decision based on other peoples’ experiences.

AsiaRooms – AsiaRooms operates in around 180 different countries including Indonesia. Hotels use AsiaRooms to sell their accommodation at more competitive prices. You are likely to find rooms cheaper on here than you will on the hotel’s own website. The hotels are regularly reviewed by AsiaRoom and user reviews and ratings are also available to help you find the best accommodation in Bali.

Agoda – Agoda is a popular online booking site that pride itself on only offering guests who stay at the hotel to opportunity to write a review. Unlike other travel sites, not just anyone can complete a review, which makes them 100% legit. They have thousands of hotels listed and offer some of the most competitive prices on the Internet.

Air bnb – Airbnb is really starting to dominate the online accommodation world. Anyone can chuck their home up on the site, however there is a clear movement towards this site being used commercially rather than people offering the physical homes they live in. There are so many amazing options, especially villas. Just make sure you only go for ones with good reviews, and lots of them at that.

Booking.com – If you wait until after midday on the day you need to check in somewhere (for those travellers who are quick on their feet) you can get some amazing deals on Booking.com. But decent deals are plentiful regardless. Like Agoda, only people who book with them can write a review on the accommodation they purchased, so it gives a good indication of what you can expect upon your arrival.

Location, location, location

Image credit: Nichola Spain

Just as you’re spoilt for choice with the types of accommodation on offer in Bali, you’re also pretty lucky when it comes to locations.

The beauty of Bali is that everywhere is so different and you can truly create your own unltimate holiday experience. As stated by supermodel Tyra Banks, “you don’t choose Bali, Bali chooses you.” We can’t help but agree.

KUTA & LEGIAN

This is Bali’s most populated and well known area for tourism. Whether you stay in the Kuta/Legian area will depend on what kind of holiday you’re after. Most of what you’ve heard about Kuta is probably true and we don’t want to diss it. For some, it’s the most loveable spot on the island and the only place worth venturing to. It’s all lights, selfies, bintang beers and singlets. In November this amps up even more with end of school goers replacing Australia’s Gold Coast for the raging streets of Kuta for what is best known as “Schoolies.”

In Kuta you will be able to shop in large scale malls, hit all of the surf outlets, venture to the famous markets selling anything and everything from fake Nikes to crockery and jewellery. Many of your massive hotel chains like the Holiday Inn and the Hard Rock Hotel are located in this area too. As you move towards Legian, things get a little more palatable for a more sophisticated bunch and a little too swanky for some.

Where to stay?

The Magani Hotel and Spa from US$105/night

Image credit: Magani Hotel and Spa

The Magani is a beautiful hotel that is perfectly positioned for those wanting to experience the best of both Kuta and Seminyak. Choose from deluxe rooms and suites with or without a jacuzzi, as well as premier pool rooms that boast a private plunge pool. People rave about the personalised and attentive service and the array of delicious food on offer at the breakfast buffet. Rooms start from such a reasonable price that you can’t really go past this gem if you’re on a mid-range budget.

Chic, beachfront accommodation is what best describes Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana. It’s a large scale hotel with more than 300 rooms available. There are two restaurants and three bars on site, including the IP pool bar with amazing views of the Indian Ocean. If you’re not keen on villa living in Bali and are craving more of a cosmopolitan holiday, then this is a great option. The service is also top notch – you’ll find people who stay at the Pullman come back again and again if they’re regular visitors to the island.

This five star resort in the heart of Kuta is a favourite for Bali first timers and those who love the buzz of the area. Every single room at The Sheraton provides guests with a view of the vast Indian Ocean and famous Kuta Beach. You will also spot some glorious sunsets from this prime position. There is an infinite pool and sun lounges so you can avoid having to lay with the masses on Kuta Beach. Three funky and suave restaurants are located within the hotel grounds, as well as a fitness centre and kids club, giving parents the chance to escape and have some alone time.

Hate to state the obvious, but if you like pools, then we think Padma might be for you. The main pool sits just off the beach and the lagoon style pool wraps around some of the rooms on offer at Padma Resort in Legian. There is so much to do when you stay here you couldn’t possibly get bored. Take part in cooking classes, countless sports activities, yoga classes, have a hit on the tennis court, go feed some fish or embark on some garden exploring (that’s a thing). There are 13 different room styles to cater to everyones budget, but the best bit is the hospitality is warm and inviting at Padma, so you’ll feel right at home.

SEMINYAK & KEROBOKAN

Seminyak and Kerobokan buzz with a cool and trendy vibe. Many of Bali’s best restaurants line the streets and there is always something going on. This area is constantly on the go, stay up late for a cocktail, massage or some ice-cream from Gusto Gelato to sooth you during the balmy nights.

While you may only identify Kerobokan with drug smugglers, don’t be turned off. This area has been newly developed and offers great accommodation in Bali.

If you’re looking to spend your days lounging from sunrise to sunset at one of Bali’s beautiful beach bars like Ku De Tah or Potato Head, finding accommodation in Seminyak and Kerobokan is the way to go. Most of what you will find here are villa’s and slightly smaller-scale resorts and hotels. It’s also home to a lot of Bali’s boutique shopping as many local and international designers have set up shop here.

Where to stay?

Ize Seminyak from $88/night

Image credit: Ize Seminyak

An impressive mid-range boutique hotel on Oberoi in Seminyak. The Ize has 81 rooms including a deluxe room with or without pool access, club rooms that open to the rooftop pool and club suites that offer a range of benefits including personalised check-in and check-out, as well as a more sophisticated design within the room. Ize Seminyak also has a trendy eatery called Meja and a bar called Single Malt.

You immediately feel the buzz of Seminyak from this trendy hotel on Oberoi (yes another). U-Paasha is in a prime location close to some of the best cafes, restaurants and bars, including inBali favourites: Sisterfields, La Favela and Chandi. The beach is also close by, just a short stroll down the end of the street. The design is modern and chic with polished concrete flooring throughout the rooms. Ask for an ocean view room and make sure you maximise your time on their amazing rooftop that’s complete with a bar and pool. A unique quirk of U-Paasha is that it allows 24 hour check-in and check-out. So whatever time you arrive at the boutique hotel, is the time you check out on your departure.

It becomes apparent on arrival – as you drive down the long, winding and grand entrance of the W – that you’re in for a treat (hence their name). The large foyer is scattered with pops of colour – namely bright pink – and a giant W sits in front of the pool where people go to lounge, hang and be seen in Bali. The W has 237 retreats, suites and villas. Enjoy ocean or garden views in your room, fitted with signature W beds and Bose sound systems. The W is perfectly positioned just off Jalan Petitenget in Seminyak allowing you to enjoy the countless restaurants and bars that line the street.

The grounds of The Oberoi Bali make you feel as if you’re in a tropical paradise. Little could you know that you’re a stones throw from the busiest and hottest spots in Bali. 15 acres of land as well as 500m of private beach make up this stunning five star resort in Seminyak. The villas have traditional Balinese thatched roofs, natural stone and ornate wooden carvings. Enjoy your private ocean views in the resort’s open air dining spaces. Perfect for a romantic getaway or honeymoon, get the best of both worlds at The Oberoi Bali.

CANGGU & ECHO BEACH

Canggu and Echo Beach draw quite a diverse crowd. While you will spot many of the young surfy types here with some of the best breaks in Bali, it also manages to draw an upmarket group of people too. Far more chilled and nicely positioned just away from the hustle and bustle of Kuta and Seminyak, it offers a little bit of peace at a very short distance when you’re looking for accommodation in Bali.

The ten-kilometre street of beach includes smaller villages like Mengening. This is also where many expats who reside in Bali choose to live. Even the famed Australian swimmer Michael Klim and his wife Lindy call this village home. Canggu has beautiful beaches and vast rice terraces spotted with luxury villas and homes. Now one of Bali’s most popular locations, it has a great selection of cafes, restaurants and shops to keep you fed, clothed and entertained.

Where to stay?

The Kirana Hotel Resto & Spa from US$85/night

Just minutes from Batu Bolong Beach, The Kirana easily assumes the laid-back beachside vibe its environment encourages. The accommodation has a tropical design mixed in with Balinese artistry set in the lush surrounds of the rice fields.The hotel has an infinity pool, restaurant, bar, gym, spa, yoga deck and a terrace to watch the stunning sunsets.

Lv8 Resort Hotel is great beachfront mid-range hotel situated in the pleasant and peaceful surrounds of Canggu. The infinite pool and Vue Beach Club are big draw cards for this place; there isn’t anything else like it in Canggu and for those who are into the whole Potato Head vibe but don’t want the masses of people, this is the sweet spot. There are an array of suites available as well as two and three bedroom penthouses.

Hacienda was inspired by the open courtyard layouts of the traditional family homes found in the south of Spain. Combing Spanish, French and tropical influences, Hacienda was made using many traditional materials that are indigenous to Bali. The brains behind this stunning villa accommodation amongst the rice fields in Canggu is a British couple who, before falling in love with Bali, lived in France for 20 years. Hacienda is earthly and cultured, perfectly capturing the light that bounces off the rice fields through the large wooden windows. There are two, three and four bedroom villas on the property as well as a central pool for guests. You can also hire out the entire space for events and it makes a perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Hacienda also has an award winning chef who specialises in Japanese cuisine.

Enjoy the serenity of this exquisite and intimate art hotel in Canggu. Hotel Tugu Bali was designed by the owner of the biggest collection of fine Indonesian art and cultural antiquities in the country and it’s here he houses his antiques, sharing them with the guests. Canggu itself is set away from the common haunts tread by your regular Bali tourist and this boutique hotel offers an even further escape. The architecture is traditional and enchanting, leaving you feeling rested and revitalised as you reluctantly leave the doors of this beautiful Balinese retreat.

SANUR

This eastern 5km stretch of beach along the Bali coastline is the perfect spot to soak up the “real” Bali. It’s thought to be a sleepy area but is really picking up and has very reasonably priced accommodation available.

Surprisingly, Sanur is where a lot of Bali’s beachfront accommodation began, but luckily it hasn’t been windswept with massive resort chains. As a former fishing village, Sanur still holds a lot of traditional charm and gives off relaxed coastal vibes. It has quite an eclectic mix of accommodation, restaurants and shops that make it an attractive destination for different types of holiday goers.

The drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Sanur is around 30-minutes, and it’s also well located for day trips to other parts of the island, including Amed and Cadi Dasa.

Where to stay?

Puri Santrian from US$145/night

Image credit: Puri Santrian

Puri Santrian is a family owned and run beachfront resort in Sanur. The rooms feature traditional elements with modern Balinese design. A point of difference, especially if you have an aversion to children, is the child free area within the resort called the Santrian Club. There are three different venues to eat and drink in including the Bar By The Sea (above) where you can absorb the tranquil vista of the Indian Ocean. You are walking distance to the hub of Sanur if you want to check out your surrounds.

At Klumpu, eight traditional lumbung style villas, all hand crafted by local wood workers, are lined around the 18 meter lagoon pool that has its own natural waterfall. The villas feature Bali-inspired décor with high ceilings and batik terraces that overlook the luscious garden and pool. Appropriately named – in Balinese Klumpu means ‘lumbung’ – these structures were traditionally used to store rice. It’s a tranquil retreat, perfect for an intimate getaway or even a family that can be housed in the loft villa.

Modern beachfront luxury accommodation is what sets the scene for a stay at Maya Sanur Resort & Spa. Designed by the award winning architect Budiman Hendropurnomo of Denton Corker Marshall, the resort melds traditional Balinese design with contemporary and sophisticated aesthetics. There is a rooftop garden, three pools, four dining venues and an expansive boardwalk that lines the beach. There are 103 rooms and suites, including some with access to the lagoon pool, and beach front suites with a private pool. Crisp white sheets and wooden finishing are featured throughout, keeping inline with the cosmopolitan feel of this beachfront resort.

Set on four hectares of lush tropical gardens in the former fishing village of Sanur, the Fairmont is a beachfront luxury resort offering suite and villa accommodation. There are 120 large suites and villas available, offering panoramic views of either tranquil gardens or the ocean, and 24 hour butler service so that whatever the hour, your needs can be catered for. Fairmont Sanur feels like a tropical sanctuary – almost as though you’re on your own private island. There are two restaurants in the resort grounds as well as a spa, kids club and a retailer selling high-end goods. Do note, Fairmont Sanur was formerly the Regent Bali, which was just last year featured on Condé Nast Traveler‘s 2014 Hot List. The resort is also conveniently nestled just 25 minutes from the Ngurah Rai International Airport.

You will immediately fall in love with Jimbaran Bay. As soon as you experience the famous seafood BBQ and a beautiful sunset at one of the local warungs along the beach, you’ll be sold. Musicians strum next to diners seated on the outdoor settings that line sands as far as the tide will allow them to stretch. Even those who find themselves safely tucked away inside one of the big luxury resorts like the Four Seasons or InterContinental will find themselves wandering down here night after night. Jimbaran Bay is conveniently located next to Bali’s International Airport, so you will also find that a lot of people end their holiday here for convenience.

This local fishing village has lots of wonderful accommodation in Bali, going from one end of the spectrum to the other, you will find something to fit your budget. Despite drawing many tourists (part and parcel of holidaying in any area of Bali) both the beach and the bay of Jimbaran provide smaller secluded areas that allow you to escape to find some peace and tranquility.

Where to stay?

Milo’s Home from US$104 per night

Image credit: Booking.com

If you’re looking for a rustic beachfront holiday staying in traditionally designed Balinese lumbungs, you will be pleased to find Milos home. Slightly more primitive on the scale of mid-range accommodation, you are really paying for the raw and untouched beauty of the area. The lumbungs are charming and have everything you need to be comfortable; fans (no air-con, but the ocean breezes provides enough comfort in the evening), a private bathroom, hot water and fresh towels. Milo’s also has its own private beach so you can enjoy your own little slice of paradise.

InterContinental Bali Resort from US$161/night

Image credit: InterContinental Bali

The InterContinental opened in 1993 and marked one of the first resorts of its kind to be built in Bali. There was the initial luxury of having so much land available that this is another massive 14 hectare resort. The InterContinental Bali Resort stretches along the beautiful beach of Jimbaran Bay, the same beach known for its famous seaside restaurants that line the sand. The design of the resort harnesses traditional Balinese architecture. There are two spas, six pools, eight restaurants (as well as in-room dining) and a kids club within the resort. There are 417 rooms and its important to remember that each room type comes with different benefits and add-ons, so it’s worth looking closely so you get the most out of your stay.

The home of the Rock Bar…need we say anymore? The Rock Bar (for those who’ve been living under a rock) is a sight to be seen. It sits perched on top of the giant rocks at the foot of a cliff. Even if you can’t afford to stay here, make sure you at least visit for a sunset or two. The award winning resort offers a 290-room hotel and 78 private pool villas spread out along its very own 1.3 kilometre stretch of coastline (that’s right, no sharing). The rooms and villas are designed with varying aesthetics all emulating authentic Balinese design and styling. Besides its private beach, the resort also has an Aquatonic seawater pool plus 11 other pools to choose from – apologies in advance if you’re inherently indecisive.

One expects luxury when they stay at the Four Seasons, and luxury is what you will find at their resort in Jimbaran Bay. There are 147 thatched roof pavilions that expand across 14 hectares of land. The resort has spectacular ocean views witnessed onto a steeping cliff. Each room, whether a villa or residence, has a distinctly Balinese design with private gardens and a private plunge pool, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of your own surrounds. Either relax the days away or join in on one of the many activities on offer such as bootcamp or a cooking class. The dining is world-class, as is the service. You certainly get what you pay for, a complete luxury holiday.

ULUWATU

If you go all the way to Bali for a beach holiday and wind up in Kuta or Seminyak thinking there’s no chance in hell you’re swimming in that water, don’t fret! You simply turned the wrong way out of Bali’s Denpasar Airport. Most of the accommodation in Uluwatu offers stunning cliff views of the Indian Ocean. The most popular surfing spot on the island with perfect swell for the more experienced surfers, Uluwatu is home to the most famous wave in Bali. Naturally, you will find a lot of surfers nestled in this pocket of the island.

Like everywhere else, the accommodation in Uluwatu is anything from beach shack to luxury and every thing in between. Prices vary anywhere from $5 USD to the thousands. You should also remember you are a little isolated when you venture over to Uluwatu, but not in a bad way. It’s not an easy, nor a quick trip from one side of Bali to the other despite the seemingly short distances on the map. Uluwatu is positioned around an hour’s drive from the international airport. But there’s also no reason to really leave Uluwatu; it has everything you’ll need to enjoy your stay.

Where to stay?

Uluwatu Surf Villas from US$125/night

Image credit: Uluwatu Surf Villas

Perched on a majestic cliff overlooking the endless vista of the Indian Ocean, you will find the Uluwatu Surf Villas. Nestled into the tree tops are three different styles of accommodation; the villas are offered in three or four bedrooms. Each have one master bedroom and two/three guest bedrooms with en-suites, a spacious living and dining area and open-plan kitchen. There is also a pool and a bale (outdoor pavilion). The bungalows are two bedroom, two bathroom and feature traditional Balinese woodworking throughout. The loft accommodation is perfect for a couple or a solo traveller – they feature grand wooden framed windows that give uninterrupted views of the tranquil surrounds. You can also enjoy daily yoga classes in their very own open-air studio.

This luxury resort sits on top of a seven-meter cliff on the southern-most tip of Bali. With their own private beach, you can immerse yourself in the privacy and seclusion this resort offers. There are a variety of villas available, some with ocean views, others with private landscaped gardens, and all have their own impressive infinity pools. The environmental and social conscience of Bayan Tree Ungasan is pleasing to those who appreciate it. They have created an ecologically sustainable resort and their restaurant uses all organic and sustainable ingredients.

Alila Villas Uluwatu from US$800/night

Image credit: Alila Villas Uluwatu

Alila Villas in Uluwatu is the definition of modern luxury. A cool, sophisticated and eco-friendly design allows you to appreciate more than just the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Staying at Alila is about creating an experience, not just a physical and material one that is easily exchanged at Alila, but a spiritual and emotional one too. There are 65 one and three-bedroom villas within the resort each with king beds and indoor-outdoor living spaces and bathrooms. Two different dining venues, a spa, a gallery and an award winning pool are all found within the estate. We should also note, if you book more than 21 days in advance you get a 15% off the Best Available Rate.

You will be immediately wowed by Semara’s location; the dramatic views of the Indian Ocean are second-to-none. This luxury villa resort has seven grand villas on top of a stunning cliffside location in Uluwatu. Each has been individually designed, but common features run throughout. Each villas has 5 master bedrooms with en-suites, swimming pool, a personal butler and chef. There is also a central infinite swimming pool, tennis courts, putting green, heli pad, restaurant and bar. Semara is also home to the popular and somewhat exclusive Finns Beach Club. Keep in mind: if you’re not a guest at the resort there can be a waiting list to get down to the beach as numbers are strictly limited.

NUSA DUA

Imagine perfectly manicured gardens and lush green lawns, this is what’s best described as the “gated community” of the Island of Gods. If you’re looking for accommodation in Bali that will give you stunning five star resorts, world-class dining options and little to no interaction with authentic Bali, then Nusa Dua is the place for you. It is truly beautiful, but far less authentic than the rest of the island.

Positioned just beyond Jimbaran Bay, you will feel safe and calm inside these gates, which have regular security check points. One of the most spectacular attractions in Nusa Dua is right at the tip of the peninsula, there you can see water explode out of a natural blow hole. This draws even those who don’t care to stay in Nusa Dua.

Where to stay?

The Chedi Sakala Bali from US$195/night

Image credit: baliwww.com

Apart of the GHM Hotels portfolio (they also own The Legian), The Chedi Sakala Bali provides luxury accommodation at a great mid-range price. There are 237 suites and 14 pool villas that encapsulate traditional Balinese design with all the modern conveniences. On site is an award winning restaurant, spa, fitness centre and a kids clubs.

The Mulia Bali has become a destination for people visiting the island, whether they’re staying at the luxury five star resort or not. It’s probably due to the countless accolades it has received. In 2014 this luxury resort took out the top spot in Conde Nast Traveler USA’s Top Ten Beach Resorts in Asia, and was ranked third in their Top 100 Hotels and Resorts in the World. So even if you can’t do an actual check-in, it’s worth visiting; particularly for their Sunday brunch which is voted one of the best in town.

Guests can’t help but rave about their time at The Bale. Named after traditional Balinese structures that are much like an open-air pavilion (but don’t worry – your villa will have walls), The Bale is a boutique resort in Nusa Dua. There are 29 pavilions with private swimming pools and the design is modern and minimalist. The Bale offers a place to relax and revitalise, with well-being programs available to guests.

Nusa Dua is best known for it large-scale luxury resorts and this one sits at the top of the list. St Regis Bali stretches across nine hectares of beachfront land with impeccably landscaped gardens and all of the modern luxuries one can dream of. A private beach, spa, boutique and six different dining and drinking venues makes it hard to leave the property. Guests even have the option to request a personal butler during their stay. St Regis is also another resort where you can get up to 20% off if you book at least a month and half in advance.

UBUD

Remember the movie Eat, Pray, Love with Julia Roberts? Well that’s when Ubud was really put on the map. But for the smart nature loving types, Ubud has been a haunt for many years. Accommodation in Ubud really goes a few ways. First, authentic Balinese lodging. Second, hotels that blur the line between budget and mid-range. And third, stunning five star resorts that make the most of their the lush green surrounds.

Ubud is so rich in culture that you feel like you’ve been taken to a faraway, spiritual place. The local people are relaxed and you won’t feel hounded to eat somewhere or buy something as you’re wandering the streets. We advise you rent a scooter or a car to explore the outskirts of Ubud where great art shops and many historical and religious sights can be found.

Tourist note: Ubud draws a particular type of crowd, namely your environmental, yogi type. Much of the food here is organic and vegan, so if you’ve come to Bali with beach bars on your mind, a day trip to Ubud will suffice for you.

Where to stay?

Aria Villas from US$170/night

Image credit: Aria Villas Ubud

Aria Villas Ubud is modern villa living in one of the most culturally rich parts of Bali. Designed by Singapore based architect, Chioh-Hui Goh, the villas seamlessly blend design, luxury and simplicity, all whilst being environmentally friendly. Each of the villas harness the natural surrounds with infinite pools cascading into the jungle terrain below. The pool villas are available with one or three bedrooms. Enjoy a massage in your villa or take the mountain bikes out for a whizz. The breakfast is included and tasty, with a rotating menu to keep your tastebuds excited.

Alila Ubud is about 15 minutes or 5km outside the heart of Ubud. As you make your way to Alila Ubud you will find yourself winding up towards the volcanoes that surround the resort. The area is secluded and tranquil sitting amongst the lush green forrest. The design uses traditional Balinese architecture, with 56 rooms and 12 villas available. The rooms and villas have panoramic views of the Ayung River and surrounding volcanoes. Choose from a pool, valley or terrace tree villa for something a bit more special. There is also an award-winning infinite pool to top it all off.

Voted as having one of the best swimming pools in the world, the split level infinite pool sets the tone for your stay at Hanging Gardens and is essentially the heart of this boutique hotel. Set in jungle surrounds there are 38 private suites and villas each with their own private infinite pool. The resort sits on a 45 degree decline across 8 levels. This is one for the Instagram account…

Ubud isn’t short of health retreats, but Como Shambala Estate sets the bar pretty high. This luxury five star wellness resort is surrounded by the lush rainforest preserves of Ubud and is a 15 minute drive from the vibrant cultural centre. The estate sits on the banks of the Ayung River and has 30 rooms and suites, five residences, four private villas as well as five retreat villas. You can immerse yourself in 3, 5 or 7 day wellness retreats.

Go forth and conquer! We hope you enjoy your stay.

Great article. A bit long for a single reading but quality content. Thanks for recommending Airbnb, we’ve been hosts in Bali for 2 years now and love the mix of guests we’ve been getting. Carry on Bali!